Economic challenges don’t dim Eid celebrations as Kenyans display strong faith

As Muslims across Kenya prepare to celebrate the holy festival of Eid al-Adha on Wednesday, many families are facing a difficult balancing act preserving the spirit of sacrifice, charity and togetherness while navigating rising living costs and shrinking household budgets. From Nairobi’s South C estate to towns across the country, the mood ahead of Eid is one of faith, resilience and quiet sacrifice. For Maimuna Hassan, Eid has always been about opening her home to others. “Before, we used to host big gatherings,” she says. “We would buy five goats and invite neighbours and the less fortunate. But now things are difficult. We can only manage two or three goats.” Despite the challenges, she says her family is determined to continue the tradition they have upheld for years. “We still want to do Eid like before because it means so much to us,” she explains. “But now we cannot do it as comfortably as we used to.” Like many Kenyan households, Hassan says almost every essential item has become more expensive this year. “Meat is expensive. Vegetables are expensive. Fuel is expensive. Gas is expensive. Literally everything has gone up,” she says. Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah before God provided a ram instead. The celebration is marked by prayers, slaughtering of animals such as goats, sheep or cows, and sharing meat with family, friends and the needy. For many Muslim families, purchasing an animal for slaughter has become increasingly difficult. “We used to buy the goats ourselves,” Hassan says. “But now relatives abroad contribute money so we can still perform the sacrifice together.” She adds that families are now forced to constantly review their finances. “Before, you could budget early and put money aside for Eid. Now, even after saving, you still have to rethink your whole budget because of other expenses.” Yet amid the economic strain, the meaning of Eid remains unchanged. “It’s not even about the food,” she says. “It’s about sitting together with people Muslims, non-Muslims, neighbours, everyone and sharing joy.” At her home, serving guests has become a family tradition. “For us, we don’t even sit down and eat first. We serve the community. Maybe the next day is when we prepare something small for ourselves.” Religious leaders are also urging Kenyans not to lose hope during the difficult times. Imam and Administrator of Masjid As-Salaam Mohammed Adan Hassan, popularly known as Sagana, encouraged Muslims to remain patient and faithful. “The one who sustains you during easy times is the same one who will sustain you during hard times,” he said. “Let us make dua, repent and prepare spiritually for Eid.” The Imam also emphasised that Eid sacrifice is not simply about meat, but devotion and compassion. “What you slaughter is not for Allah. Allah only needs your commitment,” he said. “The meat should be shared with the poor and vulnerable.” Another preacher, Shariff Ali Hassan, urged families facing hardship to practice patience and gratitude. “There are people facing even more difficulties,” he said. “Appreciate the little you have. If you are grateful, Allah will increase for you.” He also called on mosques and well-wishers to organise support for vulnerable families during Eid through food and meat distribution programmes. Beyond homes and mosques, traders are also feeling the economic pressure. Abdul Kadir, a kanzu seller outside Masjid Salaam in South C, says business this Eid season has slowed compared to previous years. “Last Ramadan we had many customers, but this Eid the numbers are low,” he says. Another trader, Musa Kosi, believes fear surrounding recent demonstrations has also affected customer turnout. “People are afraid to come out,” he says. “Most customers are only people from around this area, so much of our stock remains unsold.” Goat trader Fadhumo also says the market has slowed significantly because of the tough economy and high prices. Still, she notes that many Muslims continue buying sacrificial animals because “it is a command from God.” Even with the hardships, one message continues to stand out among families, traders and religious leaders alike the importance of sharing. “We know things are hard,” Hassan says. “But once you make the intention to help others, Allah provides. Eid is about making sure even those who have nothing can smile, eat and celebrate.” As Kenya heads into Eid al-Adha, many families may be spending less than before, but for countless believers, the spirit of faith, sacrifice and community remains stronger than the economy.